Tony Blair's former bodyguard dies during cycling race in France

Ian Bashford was hit 200 metres from the finish line

Mr Bashford, 60, was taking part in the 33-mile time trial race on his final descent (iStock)

A British cyclist and former police officer who protected high-profile politicians including Tony Blair has died in a crash during a bike race in France.

Ian Bashford, from Bromley in London, died when he was hit by a support vehicle during the 33-mile Duo Normand time trial race 200 metres from the finish line.

Rescue workers tried to revive Mr Bashford but he died at the scene, while the driver of the vehicle was taken to hospital in shock, according to French media.

An investigation is reportedly underway into why the support vehicle swerved into the competitor's path.

Mr Bashford, 60, worked for the Metropolitan Police service for 27 years, during which time he worked as a protection officer for top politicians, before taking retirement ten years ago.

His cycling club, Old Portlians, confirmed the cyclist's death in a statement, saying he was hit in the final descent of the race.

The statement read: "It is with great sadness that we have to report that Ian Bashford was killed today while taking part in the Duo Normand.

"Ian was hit by a car during the final descent in to the finish area. Our thoughts are with his wife and family at this very sad time."

The club also posted a tweet that read: "Today has, for obvious reasons, been extremely hard. We can only say a very big thank you for everyone's kind wishes. RIP Bashers."

Today has, for obvious reasons, been extremely hard. We can only say a very big thank you for everyone's kind wishes. RIP Bashers.

— The Old Ports (@OldPortliansCC) September 25, 2016 

People flocked to social media to express their condolences. One fellow rider, Jonathan Grant, wrote: "Bash was the best. I was thinking of him only this morning on my ride. Condolences to his wife and family."

Another cyclist, Mark Gidney, wrote: "Very sad news I was only talking to him a few weeks ago at the Catford 25. The only rider I know who's pre race warm up was a cigar and a ride to the start line, he will be sadly missed."

Mr Bashford had been competing in the two-person team race alongside his cycling partner, Peter Grey, who reportedly escaped from the incident unharmed.